Breastfeeding in public

Last Updated: Aug. 05, 2016

The Cake Maternity brand has been built around the needs of a breastfeeding woman. It has always been our objective to creative beautiful, functional, supportive garments that nurture and encourage women to breastfeed for longer.

World breastfeeding week is the first week of August (1-7 August) and is a time for us to reflect on issues that surround breastfeeding in public and the social implications for mother and baby.

Breastfeeding in public can be a daunting task for a new mother. Some women might feel anxious and unsure, while others will feel completely confident and ready early on.

It is our hope that all women will some day be able to breastfeed in public without experiencing feelings of embarrassment, anxiety or shame, and that breastfeeding be looked upon as the natural birth right of all our children.

We have come up with a short list that will help prepare you and make breastfeeding in public stress-free and a more natural experience.

Tips for feeding in public

A good nursing bra

Wear a good nursing bra that has easy access with drop down cups and an A frame sling for discretion. A good designed bra will allow you to access your breast with little fuss.

Comfortable clothing

Wear comfortable clothing with easy access to your bra. Button down tops are a great option as they allow you to stay covered cup but access your breast area.

If you are in the market for some new clothes you may want to invest in some nursing tops. Maternity brands are now designing nursing outerwear that has easy access panels for discretion and ease of feeding.

Practice

Breastfeeding is not always easy. Some women will take a little longer to feel comfortable with the process. Practice at home first to ensure you have the hang of it.

Sitting in front of a mirror will give you a good indication of how discrete you are being.

Know your rights

Breastfeeding in public is legal and you are well within your rights, although not every business or person may be fully supportive.

We recommend you choose somewhere quiet and comfortable to feed. In the early stages a newborn can take some time to feed, so you should ensure you are comfortable and relaxed.

As time goes by you will become more aware of the child friendly areas/ locations.

Breastfeeding aids

Not everyone feels comfortable breastfeeding in public. Should this be the case with you, breastfeeding slings and covers can be purchased to partially drape over you and the baby.

This allows for easy discrete feeding without the feeling of being exposed.

Breastfeeding covers can be tricky to position into place initially, so some practice may be needed first in the privacy of your home before venturing out.

Take supplies

A breastfeeding woman should always be well hydrated and nourished. Make sure you always have a bottle of water and some sugar sweets (if you’re ok with that) to help keep your energy levels up.

Breastfeeding is a beautiful, bonding and nurturing experience, which should be celebrated.

Enjoy the experience, which is completely natural and relish in the delight of bond that is being developed between you and your baby.